Description: When you think of Manulife Financial Corp, you probably think of life insurance. But you may be surprised to learn that the company has diverse investments ranging from timber to  renewable energy to macadamia nuts. A broader range of investments helps the company compete in the wealth management business while offering growth potential.

Source: Globe and Mail.com

Date:  January 2, 2015

Link: http://www.theglobeandmail.com/report-on-business/international-business/manulife-branches-out-from-insurance-in-quest-for-stability-and-profitability/article22278840/

Discussion Points:

1) What surprised you about Manulife’s investment portfolio? Why?

2) One of the investments discussed in the article is a joint venture in Chile in the timber industry. What are some of the special accounting considerations for joint ventures?

3) If you were the auditor of Manulife, what are some of the challenges you might face in gaining an understanding of the client’s business?